Democrats Seize Control of Both Congressional Chambers

Democrats took control of both the House and the Senate in Tuesday's midterm elections. The party flipped seven Senate seats and dozens of House districts previously held by Republicans. As of Wednesday morning, the results extended into states that typically vote Republican, including victories in Texas and South Carolina.

Counting continued Wednesday for races in Mississippi and Alaska, which remained too close to call. The University of Florida Election Lab reported that more than 124 million ballots were cast. That number surpasses the previous midterm record of nearly 119 million set in 2018. The new Democratic majorities will take office in January.

President Trump offered mixed reactions to the results. In an election-night interview with Fox News, he credited Democrats for working hard. In a separate phone interview with Politico, he argued that Republicans struggled to turn out supporters because he was not on the ballot. The president posted an image of a red hat with the word VETO on it, referencing his power to reject legislation from the new Congress. He also said he was willing to negotiate with Democrats.

The Democratic Party must now select leaders for its new majorities. Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York and Rep. Hakeem Jeffries of New York currently lead their party in the Senate and House, respectively. Both need support from their colleagues to keep those roles. Jeffries would need to win a vote of the full House to become speaker when the new Congress convenes on Jan. 3.

If elected, Jeffries would become the first Black speaker in U.S. history. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has endorsed Jeffries. She praised his leadership following the Democratic victory.